In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.

In another bowl, beat the butter and sugar together until light and fluffy. Add the eggs one at a time, then the vanilla extract. Mix well.

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing until just combined. Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour.

Preheat your oven to 350°F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

Roll out the chilled dough on a floured surface to about 1/4 inch thick. Use star-shaped cookie cutters to cut the dough and place on the prepared baking sheet.

Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. Remove from the oven and allow to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack.

In a small bowl, mix the confectioners' sugar with milk until smooth. Divide into three bowls and tint two portions with red and blue food coloring.

Use a piping bag or a small spoon to decorate the cooled cookies with the colored icing. Let the icing set completely before serving.

Arrange the cookies on a festive platter and serve as part of your 4th of July celebration.

Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week.